Francis Nzioka, 46, has been living and working in the US for the past 17 years, and in New York City for the past nine months. Due to complications with his visa renewal process, he has fallen into the category of illegal immigrant and is now seeking assylum for LGBT persecution in Kenya, where he comes from. Mr. Nzioka spends his nights riding the 1-train where he sleeps sitting up so as not to get arrested. Recently, he decided to check himself into Schwartz Shelter on Ward Island where he has been processed and reassigned to a shlter for homeless people who do not have any problems such as substance abuse of mental health issues.
Last week he officially began his assylum procedure and must prove that he is homeless by registering at a homeless shelter. Back in Kenya Mr. Nzioka was a working journalist – he dreams of one day pursuing a master’s degree in journalism in the states once he gets his papers. This photo was taken at the entrance to the homeless shelter he stayed in last night for the first time. Tuesday, Nov. 15th, 2015.